A project that began serendipitously with a couple wandering into La Grange in Johannesburg, this Camps Bay home perfectly reflects the sense of ease and effortlessness that Sumari Krige incorporates into her spaces.
The Swedish owners felt immediately at home in the showroom and could imagine living in such an environment. So a few years later, when their new build in Camps Bay – designed by Scott & Partners Architects – was ready for the interiors phase, they contacted her. Seeking a coastal retreat that would blend luxury with laid-back atmosphere, they wanted something sophisticated but also warm and timeless.
In sync with the setting
The architecture is modern, so an eclectic curation of pieces and bold contemporary art add layers, always with the context in mind. The inspiration for this project stemmed from the surrounding landscape – the rugged mountains just behind the house and endless ocean views that open out in front of it – and made the most of the abundant natural light that pours into the space.
This prompted the ‘refined coastal’ style Sumari executed. “Here modern minimalism is softened by organic elements – it’s not your typical blue-and-white beach interior. We’ve used materials like weathered wood, raw linen and stone to offset the clean architectural lines which have a strong contemporary Mediterranean influence,” she says.
A versatile space
The home was built over four levels – cleverly designed so that when not in use by the owners, it can be rented out as a whole as an exclusive-use villa, or with each level as a self-contained unit independent from the others.
Texture was at the heart of this project. Natural materials like light-toned wood, organic linen and handwoven textiles, some with a distinct African pattern and feel to them, were layered to bring tactility to the clean-lined architecture. Soft furnishings, in dusky neutrals and earthy tones, were chosen to another layer of comfort, while finishes like matt stone and brushed metals lend a subtle refinement to the interiors.
“The aesthetic is one of understated luxury – calm and inviting, evoking a sense of serenity and connection to nature – and strikes a balance between being a retreat for relaxation and a functional space for entertaining,” notes Sumari.
Standout pieces & statement design
A harmonious blend of timeless, universally appealing design, and unique standout pieces and artwork give the home its unique personality. And together these elements come together to form an eclectic, dynamic but most importantly – comfortable home.
The pool area is a favourite of Sumari’s – where the views reign supreme. “The layout encourages moments of pause and relaxation, with sun loungers perfectly positioned to take in the changing light throughout the day,” says Sumari. “There are many special pieces in this project, particularly the solid teak sun loungers that line the pool area – crafted to be both stylish and functional.”
Inside, the seamless flow between the different living areas creates a space for connection and shared experiences. A second firm favourite is the main bedroom with its soft caramel and powder blue scheme. “Maybe it is the luxuriously soft Moroccan Berber rug – it completes the look.” She also loves the combination of curved custom-made sofas and sculptural lounge chairs in the living space, and the blue -green toned animal print fabric on the sunroom sofa. “It gives the house a sense of playfulness – the client wanted the space not to take itself too seriously.”
In the double-volume space above the dining table, a handmade layered woodcut Triboa Hanging lights from the Philippines fills the void. “Not only does it soften the space, but is also gives a textural focal point without blocking any of the views,” says Sumari.